I suspect you won't be popular trying to get the bike on during peak hour. Not sure how it is in Victoria, but in NSW you are 'discouraged' from doing so by the requirement to buy an extra ticket for the bike during peak hour. Never seen or heard of anyone being challenged about it, though. I've had my bike on the train quite often and not had a problem - I just hang on to it to stop it banging into things and to move it out of the way when people are moving past.

Where are you boarding Steve? If you get on at FKN itself you have better chance of placing your scoot neatly.

I'm fortunate enough to both work for and travel by V/Line services (for now ) Our stock has space set aside for bikes and luggage. I have taken my CF roadie on both services but avoid peak hour sparks like the plague because of possible risk of damage. My commuter (Kona DewDrop) has the odd battle scar, typically caused by less considerate peoples throwing their bikes into the racks.

Stick to the ends of the train near the drivers cab, a bit more space available there, do not park in the doorways as it will cause delays due to longer stand times at stations and is a safety issue in case of emergency. Do not move away from your bike if you have any exxy accessories hanging off it for fear of theft. Be prepared for dirty looks in peak hour.

Methinks you have the perfect excuse for N+1 in the circumstances

Shaun

...whatever the road rules, self-preservation is the absolute priority for a cyclist when mixing it with motorised traffic.London Boy 29/12/2011

I would suggest that if your on a morning peak hour train with a full size bke you'll be lynched by the time you get to Glenhuntly or Caulfield. If you survive that, you wont be able to get your bike out until at least Parliment. Outside peak hours I've had no problems but I do hold onto my bike. I aim for that seats at the very back end of the train where there are folding seats against the wall. Use a rubber band over the brake lever as a handbrake.

BTW what is the 'official' way of getting a bike out of Parliament, Museum/Melbourne Central or Flagstaff stations?

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